Free Star Runners by L E Thomas Page B

be on probationary status for the first semester. During that time, you will be indoctrinated into our expectations and culture. We require all first years to maintain a high level of physical activity and standards. I understand you are an athlete?"
    "I played for the baseball team."
    "Excellent. You should not find our physical expectations difficult. Regular physical training will be part of your daily routine. A sharp mind is infinitely more effective when the body is a peak condition. Following your successful completion of the first semester, you will be granted full access to the school for the remainder of your four years. If the school does not meet your expectations after the first semester or you fail to meet with any of these requirements, you will be sent home with no charge to your family."
    Nubern studied his tablet. "I should also mention you will have full access to the Internet, both in your rooms and in the common areas. Technology is an integral aspect of the learning process and is also import for maintaining contact with your family."
    "What is the expected class load?" Mom asked.
    Nubern rubbed his hands together and cracked his knuckles. "Actually, Eileen, we like to keep the details of our education techniques quiet at this stage. Each curriculum load is tailored to the individual student. The first semester will contain orientation courses and basic core curriculum classes. Math, science, you understand. Once past the orientation stage, the courses will become more focused and will highlight and enhance your son's potential."
    "This all sounds very impressive, I have to admit," Mom said. "Do you have any questions, Austin?"
    "Can you tell me a little about the campus?"
    "Of course. The campus is located about forty-five minutes south, southwest of Savannah on a secure property that spans several hundred acres."
    "Is there anything there, like, a city or something?"
    Nubern stared at Austin without blinking. "You are asking if there is anything to do on campus. I assure you; you will not have idle time. Your courses and training will keep you busy." He leaned back. "But if you are asking about the community, the school is self-sufficient and does not require the assistance of the outside world. There is no city or town. The school campus is surrounded on all sides by forests and swampland. We feel it is important to create your world view and focus on your potential. To do that, there must be no distractions."
    It did sound like a military school. "You said there were other schools in your program out there. Would I be able to transfer to another school if I wanted?"
    "I am going to be up front with you, Mr. Stone. The openings at our schools are extremely limited. We only allow a very few into the program and even less remain in the program past the probationary semester. With that being said, transferring to another school is not an event we see happen."
    Austin nodded.
    Nubern looked at him. "I think we have gone over everything I have come here to present. I am driving back to Tizona tonight. Please call the number on my card if you have any questions. I am leaving this packet for your use, but you would be able to complete all of the registration online. Since this is a full scholarship, registration will be relatively easy and you will not have any financial aid entanglements. We will need to hear back from you by next week in order to secure your spot for the upcoming school year."
    Mom blinked. "So soon?"
    "It is common during a late recruitment such as this."
    "Well alright then."
    They stood and shook hands.
    Thoughts of being at a new school and in a different life in two weeks fluttered around Austin's mind.
    "Thank you for coming all this way to speak with us," Mom said.
    "It has been a pleasure, Eileen."
    "Thank you, Mr. Nubern."
    Nubern stood in the front doorway and faced Austin. "I meant what I said, Austin. You call me if you have any questions. Tizona wants you, and I believe you